West Ham Target Rangers Star After Standout Season in Scotland | OneFootball

West Ham Enter Race for Rangers Striker Hamza Igamane Amid Fierce Competition

West Ham monitor rising star as striker search intensifies

West Ham United are among a growing list of Premier League clubs tracking Hamza Igamane, the Moroccan forward who enjoyed a breakout season with Glasgow Rangers, according to FootMercato. The 22-year-old has drawn attention across Europe following a stellar campaign in Scotland, during which he scored 16 goals and provided 3 assists in 46 appearances.

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Signed for under €2.5 million from AS FAR Rabat in the summer of 2024, Igamane has quickly made his mark at Ibrox. Initially behind Cyriel Dessers in the pecking order, he overtook the Nigerian during the second half of the season and established himself as the Gers’ main attacking threat.

His performances have not gone unnoticed. West Ham, Brentford, and Everton are all reported to be monitoring his situation, while Ligue 1 sides including Lens, Lille, Strasbourg, and Rennes have also shown interest. Rangers, however, are not expected to let him go easily.

Igamane’s growing reputation on the European stage

Igamane’s standout moments include scoring twice and assisting once against OGC Nice and finding the net against Tottenham Hotspur, the eventual Europa League winners. These performances have elevated his profile, and he was rewarded in March 2025 with a first call-up to the Moroccan national team, making his debut in a 2-1 win over Niger.

His skill set — combining physical power, technical ability, and intelligent movement — has made him a prized asset. Rangers consider him a central figure in their future plans, and he was named both Goal of the Season winner and Young Player of the Season in the Scottish Premiership.

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West Ham’s striker dilemma fuels interest

West Ham’s need for a reliable number 9 has been well documented. While Lucas Stassin of Saint-Étienne remains a target, Igamane is now firmly on the radar. The Hammers’ interest is said to be “strong,” with one source close to the situation stating: “He fits the type of forward we’ve been missing — strong, composed and able to carry the line on his own.”

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This interest coincides with a broader restructuring of the forward line. With Michail Antonio ageing and Danny Ings struggling for form, West Ham require a younger, more consistent presence in the final third.

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No discount expected from Rangers

Rangers are expected to command a significant fee, reflective of Igamane’s current stock and future potential. As FootMercato note, “for any club hoping to sign him, the price must match his value.” Given his age, performance levels and growing international pedigree, that fee is likely to be considerably higher than the €2.5 million Rangers initially paid.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Hamza Igamane is exactly the type of player who excites — young, hungry and on an upward trajectory. His blend of technical ability and physicality would suit the Premier League, and there’s a sense that he could develop into a top-class centre forward under the right guidance.

Too often in recent years, West Ham’s attack has lacked consistency. Between Antonio’s injuries, Ings’ lack of impact, and revolving options in wide areas, the Hammers have not had a dependable focal point up front. Igamane could be that man.

His form in the Scottish Premiership, particularly against continental opposition, shows he can rise to the occasion. His debut for Morocco and rapid adaptation to European football further underline his maturity. If West Ham are serious about building for the future and competing for European places again, then this is the kind of calculated investment worth making.

Yes, there will be competition — and yes, Rangers will demand a premium — but West Ham would do well to act decisively. Waiting too long might mean watching him flourish elsewhere.